COLUMBUS, OH — Ohioans can celebrate Father’s Day weekend by fishing in public waterways without a license on Saturday, June 14, and Sunday, June 15, 2025, as announced by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) Division of Wildlife on Monday, June 2, 2025. This annual event offers a unique opportunity for families to enjoy the outdoors during the only weekend of the year when residents aged 16 and older can fish for free.
Governor Mike DeWine encouraged participation, stating, “Free fishing days give Ohioans the opportunity to create special moments outdoors with their families. Ohio is the heart of adventure, and I encourage everyone to pick up a fishing rod and enjoy what our state parks have to offer.” The initiative covers all public lakes, reservoirs, streams, and rivers, including Lake Erie and the Ohio River, though all other fishing regulations, such as size requirements and bag limits, remain in effect. Anglers under 16 can fish for free year-round without a license.
ODNR Director Mary Mertz highlighted the event’s appeal, saying, “These free fishing days allow anglers of all ages and skill levels to enjoy Ohio’s rivers, lakes, and streams together.” Division of Wildlife Chief Kendra Wecker added, “A weekend of fishing is the perfect way to celebrate the start of summer… the Buckeye State offers anglers the chance to cast a line close to home or at a coveted destination.”
For beginners, ODNR suggests keeping trips simple, choosing fish-abundant locations, using live bait, and being patient while capturing memories with photos. Resources like the HuntFish OH app, the Go and Do fishing page at ohiodnr.gov, and the Wild Ohio Harvest Community provide additional support, including online modules and recipes. In 2023, ODNR stocked nearly 41 million fish in Ohio waters, ensuring plentiful opportunities.
Outside of June 14-15, anglers 16 and older need a valid license, available for $25 annually at wildohio.gov or via the HuntFish OH app. The 2024-25 Fishing Regulations should be reviewed before fishing.
